Reference and Research Librarian

Title: Reference and Research Librarian

Status: Exempt   

Purpose: Provide reference, instruction and outreach services; support collection development and acquisitions; serve as primary backup support for the Circulation Department

Supervision

Assistant Director for Research and Public Services

Schedule

Work a flexible schedule, including evening and weekends as requested

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Seminary’s reference librarian and manage supporting reference services and research instruction. Provide in-person and virtual reference desk service to the local and online PTS community as well as the broader research community and the public seeking access to the Library’s rich resources. 
• Develop a program of innovative library instruction and information literacy, including the development of online instructional resources and tutorials to support the use of library resources. Maintain knowledge of current information literacy instructional techniques, including new and innovative practices.
• Develop and promote the use of general and subject-oriented print and electronic research guides and other instructional materials.
• Assist the Head of Circulation to ensure that critical service points are fully staffed during the Library’s open hours. 
• Manage ILL requests generated by the PTS community, suggest collection purchases, assist with firm orders and acquisitions. 
• Anticipate new services for the PTS community as Seminary educational needs and directions change. Implement and enforce library policies related to circulation, space access and use, and reference. Work with management to recommend changes on current access and research policies, procedures and services that focus on the user and improved user experience of the Library.
• Assist with supervision of student employees.
• Collect, maintain and report statistics/metrics associated with areas of service. Participate in library assessment.
• Participate in and contribute to a user-centered service model.
• Participate in professional communities of practice and maintain a commitment to continuous professional development. Participate in meetings or conferences of regional groups and national associations as requested.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Library or Information Science or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Expertise in subjects and scholarly resources related to all facets of theology and religious studies
• Knowledge of theological and interdisciplinary research sources and methods
• Demonstrated ability in navigating theological research materials and tools, including online databases
• Reference and instruction experience in an academic library
• Commitment to public service, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, strong problem-solving skills, and effective customer service skills in person and virtual environments
• Working experience with various library management technologies, tools and systems
• Ability to work independently, collaboratively and effectively as a member of a team
• Demonstrated flexibility, openness to change and innovation, and a tolerance for ambiguity
• Demonstrated participation in professional communities of practice and commitment to continuous professional development

Preferred

• Master’s degree in theology, religious studies, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated ability to supervise staff engaged in research and public services
• Non-English language skills (such as German, French, Hebrew or Greek)
• Knowledge of trends and issues in library collection development and acquisitions, access, research and instruction services

 

Please submit cover letter and resume to appy@ptsem.edu. Thank you.